15th March, 2025 If you’ve made compost from materials outside your garden, and nothing has grown in it, the problem could well be due to a hidden herbicide. While most traditional herbicides do break down in compost, there’s a new breed of herbicide which is far slower to do so. Contaminated manure has caused headaches […]
Herbicide Contamination in Compost: Risks, Research, Solutions Read More »
I don’t know about you, but I find most “can’t compost” lists incredibly annoying. They often include items like grass (I compost vast amounts of grass every year), weeds (an excellent source of compost material) and human waste (haven’t they read Humanure, Shit in a Nutshell?) In fact, I often find it quite hard to
What You (Really) Can’t Compost Read More »
Winter sometimes seems endless, but my heart always begins to soar as the days grow longer and the first daffodils, tulips, and crocuses emerge from their long hibernation. It’s time to pack away the books, switch off the TV and turn our attention to the joys of gardening and composting once again. After all, it’s
Spring Composting Guide: 6 Tips For Success Read More »
Scientists have discovered that applying relatively small amounts of vermicompost can improve germination rates, plant size, and growth speed—and there are some great lessons for gardeners buried in their study. The scientists experimented with the impact of the Californian compost worm, Eisenia andrei Bouche, on arugula plants. First, they created vermicompost over eight months, using
Scientists Report: Vermicompost Grows Plants 38% Taller Read More »
Just last week, I reported on research from Stockbridge Technology Centre (STC) that found many peat-free composts delivered unacceptable results. Of course, I wanted to know more – and get tips for gardeners on how to select and get the most out of these composts. Julian Davies, Agronomist and Commercial Director of STC kindly agreed
The Problem With Peat-Free Compost (And How to Fix It) Read More »
If your compost doesn’t get hot, don’t despair! A new study suggests that longer, cooler composting periods can create compost as good as compost produced at full heat levels. That said, there are several things you need to be aware of to achieve quality. The good thing is none of them require much extra effort.
Compost Slow? Science Says It Doesn’t Matter! Read More »
12th Feb 2025 New research has shown that many bagged peat-free composts struggle to produce good results. The research was conducted at the UK’s Stockbridge Technology Centre (STC), an independent agricultural and horticultural center of excellence. The researchers bought bagged compost from a variety of sources, including online retailers, garden centers, and DIY stores. To
Many Peat-Free Composts Don’t Make the Grade Says Research Facility Read More »
There are many composting books out there, but only a handful make this list. That’s because some books can be misleading, poorly written, or inaccurate, while others are adequate. Only a few truly stand out as excellent. Of course, the best book for you depends on your needs. That’s why in this round up I’ve
5 Best Composting Books for 2025 Read More »
At a glance: A solid composting book by a true expert, Dowding’s years of experience shine through with practical advice. However, casual gardeners and those wishing for a wide range of composting techniques might wish to explore other options. Full disclosure: I’m a huge fan of Charles Dowding. I discovered his website on NoDig well
Charles Dowding’s Compost: Book Review Read More »
When I was a kid, my weakest subjects were often science. Humanities weren’t so bad because I loved reading, but when a teacher droned on about science, I retreated into a daydream. The best lessons were interactive—whether it was talking or doing an experiment. I’m pretty sure it’s not just me. During my decade as
Should Schools Teach Kids to Compost? Read More »